Situated between Hondarribia and Pasaia, Mount Jaizkibel runs parallel to the coast, burying itself in the sea and forming spectacular cliffs. The mountain top is of interest for the various ancient and newer monuments situated here. You can visit the five dolmens known as Iskulun and Jaizkibel I, II, III, and IV. The medieval San Enrique Castle consists of the remains of a military fortress, with circular towers. It offers fantastic views all around. There are also five towers from the 19th Century (also highly visible) used for transmitting light signals. Mount Jaizkibel can only be reached on foot from Hondarribia (Interurbanos bus) or from Pasaia (Herribus bus).
Half an hour away from Biarritz, on the Abbadie estate (a vast section of the coast, which is completely unspoilt and crisscrossed with many footpaths through woods and meadows) stands an impressive building facing the ocean. Inspired by the Middle Ages with its crenels and dungeons, this castle was built between 1860 and 1870 by the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc for Antoine d'Abbadie, a great traveller and fierce defender of Basque culture. Richly decorated, it shows the owner's passion for the Orient. This lover of travel and science even set up his own observatory enabling teams of astronomers to compile a catalogue of stars.
Built in the 14th century, this fortified town has always remained faithful to its origins as an asylum: it is here that the Jewish people driven away from Spain by the Reconquista took refuge. Under the watchful eye of the half-timbered rustic houses, the old streets come to life, combining local tradition with picturesque views. Wander through its century-old streets and explore the many crafts like pottery, painting, sculpting and carpentry practiced here. Every year, there is an international folk festival in August and a pottery fair in September, which is a great occasion to get some souvenirs.
The former home of Napoleon III, the restored Gare du Midi is a popular entertainment venue in the city. Nestled in the heart of Biarritz, this Art Nouveau hall is home to recitals, orchestras, concerts, theater and dance shows. Apart from that, it is also a perfect venue for major events like car conventions and product launches. It comprises a huge 1400-seat auditorium, a small auditorium with a capacity of 230, several meeting rooms and a terrace.
Located close to Bertiz in Upper Navarre, Infernuko Errota is an old water mill. It is situated between the municipalities of Etxalar and Baztan. This 17th-century mill was restored in the year 2000. It is set on a wooden bridge that runs over the Lateta Erreka stream. This old mill features a gabled roof and is made with materials like stones and chestnut. In the earlier days, villagers were known to make corn flour here at this mill.
It was in this church that King Louis XIV married Maria Theresa of Spain way back in 1660. A historical monument, Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, attracts hundreds of tourists each year for its glorious past, exceptional architecture and breathtaking interiors. Its altarpieces of gilded wood is one of the most noted in the Basque region and an area of interest for many historians. So for art and history buffs, Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, is definitely a must visit while in the area.
The Basque Museum is an eye opener for those who wish to learn about the history and cultural of Bayonne. There are various permanent exhibition sections within the museum that are dedicated to various aspects of the city such as clothes, geography, architecture, sports, art, dance, the economics of the city and more. The exhibits are depicted in relation with the time line. Educational programs, exhibitions and other events are held here that provide an in-depth understanding of the French way of living. A visit to the Basque Museum is highly recommended!
Built between the 13th and 15th centuries on the foundations of an old Roman cathedral, today Cathédrale Ste-Marie part of UNESCO World Heritage. Its Gothic style with two spires can be seen from several kilometers away, making it an impressive sight. Inside, admire the quality of the window panes and the statues and intricate paintings. Even those of little faith will be overwhelmed by the feeling of total serenity. Ransacked after the French revolution there are still some interesting tombs and vestiges in its cloisters. For those of you who don't suffer from vertigo, you can even climb up into the belfry to get a superb panoramic view of the town.